Atal Innovation Centre Opens in Abu Dhabi

Atal Innovation Centre Opens in Abu Dhabi: Global Innovation Gateway

India took a historic step in expanding its innovation landscape globally with the inauguration of its first overseas Atal Innovation Centre (AIC) at the IIT Delhi–Abu Dhabi campus in September 2025. The landmark event was led by Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan during his official visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This initiative strengthens academic and research ties while promoting innovation and entrepreneurship between India and the UAE.

Atal Innovation Centre at IIT Delhi–Abu Dhabi

The newly launched centre is part of the Government of India’s flagship Atal Innovation Mission (AIM). This is the mission’s first expansion outside India, reflecting its vision of transforming innovation into a global movement. Positioned as a hub for entrepreneurship, knowledge exchange, and collaborative research, the centre fosters strong partnerships between Indian and Emirati institutions while supporting a global innovation ecosystem.

Academic Programmes Launched

To mark its launch, two significant academic programmes were introduced:

• Ph.D. in Energy and Sustainability: Aimed at advancing research in renewable energy, green technologies, and environmental solutions.
• B.Tech in Chemical Engineering: Focused on creating skilled engineers ready to tackle industry demands and contribute to global innovation.

These programmes are designed to nurture talented professionals and researchers capable of developing solutions to pressing global challenges.

Bilateral Cooperation in Education

Minister Pradhan engaged in discussions with Ms Sara Musallam, Chairperson of the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK). Key areas of cooperation included:

• Expanding Indian curriculum schools across the UAE to better serve the Indian diaspora.
• Establishing Atal Innovation Labs in Indian schools in the Emirates, inspired by Atal Tinkering Labs in India.
• Strengthening student and teacher exchanges, curriculum alignment, and recognition of qualifications.

This collaboration highlights the shared commitment to enhance education, research, and innovation between the two countries.

Alignment with National Education Policy 2020

The initiative supports the vision of India’s National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which stresses innovation, global exposure, and skill development. By aligning education reforms with international best practices, the partnership enhances academic standards while preparing students for future-ready careers.

Importance of Atal Innovation Mission

Launched to foster a culture of creativity, AIM has developed platforms such as Atal Tinkering Labs, Atal Incubation Centres, and various innovation challenges to support startups and research. With the Abu Dhabi centre, AIM extends its reach globally, reinforcing India’s leadership in creating a knowledge-based economy.

Expanding Indian Education in the UAE

During his UAE visit, Minister Pradhan also attended the first anniversary of Symbiosis University’s Dubai campus, underlining the growing footprint of Indian higher education institutions in the Gulf region. Such developments strengthen cultural bonds and make quality education accessible to international as well as Indian students abroad.

Conclusion

The establishment of the first overseas Atal Innovation Centre in Abu Dhabi is a milestone in India’s global education and innovation journey. It not only fosters academic collaboration but also builds a strong foundation for research, talent development, and entrepreneurial success in partnership with the UAE—a true step toward a borderless innovation ecosystem.